On the evening of Monday, U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Andrew Baker added that business relations between Pakistan and the United States should broaden in both countries. On the occasion of a conference organized by the Pak America Business Forum and the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Baker also underscored the fact that the U.S. Mission supports investment in Pakistan through the avenues of diplomacy and policy advocacy. He considered it an avenue for a brighter tomorrow due to the ongoing structural economic reforms in Pakistan.
“Baker said: ‘The United States is the largest export … market of Pakistan and holds 16 percent of total Pakistan exports to the globe.” He notes that over the last decade, trade between the two countries has flourished more than doubled, which indicates a very healthy economic cooperation. More than 80 U.S. companies work in Pakistan, directly employing 120,000 Pakistanis but indirectly benefiting over a million people.
Also Read: Government Presents Revised Seminary Registration Bill to JUI F
“Baker added that whereas these businesses were being employees of cutting-edge technologies, they were quite open to public disclosure, and innovation was derived, with a track record of corporate responsibility. Besides, he said, the demographic dividend potential of a young population seemed huge, with opportunities feasible in technology, in trade and business, and resilience in the climate area,” he notes.
Baker also mentioned the importance of the diaspora of Pakistan in building economic ties. According to him, the USAID Pakistan Investment Promotion Activity has conducted business road shows in various cities, generating $13 million in foreign direct investment. He cited examples like SelectUSA, which makes it easier for foreign companies to enter the United States, and GharPar, a women-led Pakistani business that created 1,000 jobs after participating in a U.S.-funded initiative.
Baker invited businesses to participate in the next SelectUSA Summit in May 2025 and reiterated the U.S. Mission’s support for enhancing bilateral trade and investment.